The company was founded in 1891 by Mr Seaton Leng (a prominent figure in the town, serving as Mayor of Darlington in 1920 - 1921) and was originally located in Gladstone Street, Darlington.

In 1920, the joinery and undertaking business was relocated to its present site, on the corner of Bondgate and Greenbank Road, where stables were erected with horse and carriage blocks, and coffins were all made by hand from solid timbers. By the time Seaton Leng died in October 1942, his business had already been handled by the Bulmer family, who continued to run the firm until the early 1950's.

In 1952, Mr Raymond Tindale joined Seaton Leng & Son Ltd, and later was to become Managing Director of the company, being appointed Northern Area President of The National Association of Funeral Directors. Raymond's son, Peter, joined the firm in the early 1960's, learning all aspects of the trade from his father, enabling him to take over as Managing Director upon Raymond's retirement. Peter also went on to become president of the Association following in his father's footsteps.

Now, working alongside his father, Peter's son James has joined the firm ensuring that the family values and traditions of the firm can continue over the next generation. Peter's daughter, Sally, also works within the company, running the administration side of the business together with James' wife, Sarah.

Today, Seaton Leng & Son Ltd is one of the largest privately owned and family run firms of Funeral Directors in the North-East of England, providing a twenty-four hour service to the local community. The company offers a friendly and professional approach in providing guidance and support to a family at a distressing and difficult time.

A modern fleet of Mercedes hearses and limousines (in distinctive burgundy livery) is the flagship of the company, and one example where tradition blends with progress. There are nine private Rest Rooms, each one tastefully decorated and furnished, with a nearby water fountain creating a peaceful and tranquil ambience for families to spend time with their loved one.